A sudden shift in lake temperatures over the weekend caused a temporary yellow tint in the water supply for Atoka County Rural Water District #4, though officials emphasize the water remains safe to use and consume.
Atoka RWD #4 received numerous inquiries from concerned residents regarding the discolored water. According to district officials, the issue stems from an annual phe- nomenon known as lake 'turnover.' As water temperatures shift dramatically during the summer, naturally occurring manganese, a mineral element related to iron, spikes in the raw water supply, briefly surging as it enters the treatment plant.
While the tint is visually unappealing, district representatives confirmed the water is safe for drinking, bathing, and general household use.
